Catalina Owner's Manual - Chris Craft

Trailering
HITCH
Overloading can cause hitch failure leading to injury-causing accidents.
Total weight of the loaded trailer must not exceed the capacity
marker on the hitch of the tow vehicle.
Hitches are divided into classes that specify the gross trailer weight and maximum tongue weight for each
class. Always use a hitch with the same class number as the trailer.
There are two basic hitch types:
• Weight-Carrying – This simple relatively inexpensive bumper hitch supports the entire trailer tongue weight at
the hitch. It is adequate for some light boats and trailers but may be banned in some areas.
• Weight-Distributing – This hitch distributes the load to all wheels of both the tow vehicle and the trailer. It can
handle heavier loads with less wear on the tow vehicle. Some hitches have anti-sway bars to improve control by
minimizing trailer fishtailing.
Ensure that the hitch ball matches the trailer coupler. When latched the coupler should fit snugly on the
ball.
SAFETY CHAINS
Safety chains ensure that the trailer will not become completely separated from the towing vehicle while
being towed. Crisscross the chains under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to the road
if the trailer separates from the hitch ball.
BRAKES
The boat trailer should be equipped with a braking system to help relieve stress on the tow vehicle when
braking. Ensure the trailer brakes are operational and in good condition.
TOWING A TRAILER
When towing a trailer be aware that the trailer will track in a wider turn than the tow vehicle. When turning
be careful that the trailer does not strike another vehicle or object. Turns should be made at an appropriate
speed.
You should always practice backing a trailer before you get into a confined launch site. Get accustomed to
working with a trailer. Understand how backing a trailer is different than backing a car. The more you practice
the more confident you become with your trailer.
D–2 Chris-Craft